There will be no American Football season in Britain this year after the British American Football Association (BAFA) declared the 2020 season is cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic.
This means county outfits that Tamworth Phoenix and Staffordshire Surge will not be throwing a competitive ball for the rest of the year.
The sports authority had previously considered moving the start of the season to mid-July but having assessed feedback from teams and coaches, and following the latest update from the UK Government, it said it was clear that it was “simply not in a position to make this go-ahead decision for a mid-July start to the season.”
However, flag football is not included in this. BAFA said that because the form of this type of American Football requires less contact and has “fewer logistical challenges” it is hoping to potentially start adult games in August while youth team fixtures would start in September.
As for the full-contact game, the sports body said that “a majority” of members will receive a partial refund of their membership fees for the 2019/20 season within the next few weeks.
In a statement, BAFA Chief Executive Pete Ackerley addressed the British American Football community, saying: “Having listened to your views, assessed the latest advice from the Government and reviewed all the options on the table, we have made a decision to cancel the contact season across adult, junior and youth.
“We have tried to give it every chance we can, but once logistical challenges such as transport, venues and medical cover are also factored in, it’s become clear that it’s just not feasible.
“Teams have said they would be keen to potentially play friendly fixtures later in the year, if this is possible, and this is something we will absolutely support if public health guidelines allow for it.
“I would like to end by saying that all of the decisions outlined above have been taken with your best interests and safety at heart, and after listening closely to your views.
This is an extremely difficult situation for us all, and it goes without saying that BAFA passionately wants to see football played, and we will do everything we can to help organise practices, friendlies and flag tournaments as and when this is possible.
“We are extending the season until the end of October to provide as much opportunity as we can to allow some playing action to take place. I will keep you informed with developments as they progress.
“We must focus on protecting the long-term future and integrity of our sport so that we can successfully overcome this unprecedented period. As we continue to do this, I hugely appreciate your patience, understanding and passion – and I urge everyone to stay safe, remain healthy, and support each other and our mental health.”
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WE HAVE MOVED! 